Chicago witnessed a horrific act of violence on its South Side, resulting in the death of an 9-year-old girl and critical injuries to ten others, including a 1-year-old and a 7-year-old. The shooting, believed by police to be gang-related, occurred near 52nd St. and South Damen Ave. around 9:18 p.m. on Saturday. The young girl tragically lost her life due to a gunshot wound to the head. The two boys, aged 1 and 7, are in critical condition after suffering multiple gunshot wounds. This event marks a grave moment for the community, highlighting the ongoing issue of gang violence in the area.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Tragic Outcomes Leave 9-Year-Old Girl Dead and 10 Others Critically Injured as Gang Violence Strikes Chicago's South Side
Ariana Molina, 9, is the sole casualty of the shooting

Following the shooting, Chicago police and emergency responders provided immediate medical assistance, applying tourniquets and chest seals to help the other eight victims, whose ages range from 19 to 40. All victims were part of a family gathering outdoors when a black sedan approached and shots were fired into the crowd, according to a witness. Deputy Police Chief Don Jerome emphasized that this was not a random act of violence but likely gang-related. He described the actions of the offenders as “horrific and unacceptable” for Chicago. The incident is still under investigation by Area One detectives, and no arrests have been made as of yet.